Freddy Cole: To the Ends of the Earth

It's hardly a criticism of Freddy Cole to say that he sounds almost eerily like big brother Nat. They share an unmistakable vocal timbre that can only be attributed to incredibly fortunate genes. This 1997 Fantasy album is one of his best - a swinging collection of standards delivered with grace, emotion, and a mature confidence.

Few singers know their way around an old tune like Cole. With remarkable patience and impeccable timing, he brings a fresh perspective to familiar songs like "In the Still of the Night," "Candy," "For All We Know," and "I'll Be Seeing You." The fine supporting cast includes Joe Locke on vibes, Joe Ford on soprano sax, George Mraz on bass, and Steve Berrios and Yoron Israel on drums. An outstanding pianist (again like his brother), Cole bows out on the keyboards on all but one tune here in favor of soulful young phenom Cyrus Chestnut.

This is supremely elegant music and great jazz for the wee small hours of the morning.

I grew up listening to my father's Jazz records and listening to radio. My dad was a musician for many years as a vocalist, bassist and drummer. His two uncles played in the Symphony of Reggio Calabria back in Italy

I grew up listening to my father's Jazz records and listening to radio. My dad was a musician for many years as a vocalist, bassist and drummer. His two uncles played in the Symphony of Reggio Calabria back in Italy. So music and jazz specifically have been a part of me since I was born. I love and perform in all styles of music from around the world. Improvisation in jazz is what drew me in, and still does as well as other genres that feature improvisation. A group of great musicians expressing themselves as one is the hallmark of great jazz and in fact all great music.